What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alienation
Example
The new student felt a sense of alienation in the unfamiliar school environment. [alienation: noun]
Example
His negative attitude towards his colleagues led to his alienation from the team. [alienation: gerund or present participle]
withdrawal
Example
She went into withdrawal after ending her long-term relationship. [withdrawal: noun]
Example
He decided to withdraw from the project due to personal reasons. [withdraw: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Withdrawal is more commonly used than alienation in everyday language. Withdrawal is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while alienation is less common and refers to a specific feeling of disconnection.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alienation and withdrawal?
Both alienation and withdrawal are formal words that are typically used in academic or professional contexts, but withdrawal can also be used in informal situations.
